Luxembourg vs Netherlands
Crypto regulation comparison
Luxembourg
Netherlands
Luxembourg is a major European hub for crypto and blockchain financial services. The CSSF regulates VASPs and crypto-related investment funds. Crypto held for more than 6 months is generally exempt from capital gains tax for individuals, making it attractive for long-term holders. Luxembourg hosts several prominent crypto exchanges and fund administrators.
The Netherlands has one of Europe's strictest crypto regulatory regimes. DNB has overseen VASP registration since 2020 under the Dutch AML/CFT Act (Wwft), and many applications have been rejected. The Netherlands does not tax realized capital gains directly; instead, crypto holdings are taxed under the Box 3 wealth tax based on a deemed return on net assets. The AFM oversees market conduct. MiCA is now the governing framework.
Key Points
- CSSF oversees VASPs under the Luxembourg AML/CFT framework
- Individuals holding crypto for 6+ months are generally exempt from capital gains tax
- Short-term gains taxed at progressive income tax rates up to 42%
- Major hub for crypto investment funds and blockchain companies
- MiCA framework fully applicable from December 2024
Key Points
- DNB requires VASP registration under the Wwft (AML Act); rigorous approval process
- Only a limited number of VASPs have obtained DNB registration (many rejected or withdrawn)
- Crypto taxed under Box 3 wealth tax: deemed return on net assets taxed at ~31-36% (effective ~1.2-1.6%)
- AFM regulates crypto advertising and market conduct; banned crypto ads targeting retail in 2022
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024, transitioning from national DNB regime